Monday, May 2 – 1 Corinthians 12:4-6

Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord. There are varieties of effects, but the same God who works all things in all persons.

What comes to your mind when you think about a gifted Christian? There are probably certain gifts that come to mind based on the gifted Christians you know. Maybe you know a missionary who is gifted with evangelism or a pastor who is gifted with preaching. If we are not careful, we categorize these people as “super Christians” putting them on a level we feel like we could never attain. In the passage today, Paul encouraged the Corinthians to recognize the unity of all the spiritual gifts. As Paul said, there are a variety of effects from the different gifts God has given. But God is at work in them all. You may not be a public speaker or even sure how to share your faith with another person, one on one. When you compare your gifts to others you will never measure up but in God’s economy, each gift is important and vital to the body. If you are outgoing, your smiling face is needed to encourage others. If you prefer to stay behind the scenes, your generosity and insight can serve others. You may not stand on the big stage or preach to the masses, but God has given you a testimony to share and gifts to be used by Him and for His glory. In our minds, the gifts we have may seem less important than the ones that are more visible, but we see in His Word that all gifts are valuable to God. Whether your act of love and encouragement is seen by one or one thousand, it is the same God working in you and ready to use you according to His purpose.

• How have you viewed some spiritual gifts as more important than others? What leads you to do this?
• What are some of the gifts God has given you that may not be noticed by others?
• Pray and thank God for the necessity of all the spiritual gifts.